Baby Products

Loveys are like security blankets for babies, providing a secure and familiar place to sleep. They may also aid children during difficult times like separation anxiety or when mommy returns to work.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it's ideal for parents to introduce a lovey around 12-months old. These objects provide babies with an opportunity to practice self-soothing and build confidence during their first year of life.

What Are Loveys?

Loveys are soft, cuddly objects that babies and children develop an emotional attachment to. These comfort items may be stuffed animals or blankets and come in various colors, designs, textures. Some even feature rattles or teething components for extra relief of sore gums.

Most children will develop a relationship with a comfort object during their early childhood years. This could include anything from blankets, teddy bears, mom's bathrobe or even soft baby dolls.

However, a lovey is more than just any ordinary toy; it should have an irresistible scent that helps foster the bond between your child and this object. Spend some time wearing your lovey in your shirt throughout the day or overnight so it can smell just like you, then incorporate it into your baby's naptime and bedtime routine in whatever way works best for them.

A loved one can be an excellent way for your baby to self-soothe when they are experiencing feelings of fear or anxiety. This could include a new sitter, grandma coming over, starting at a new child care center or any other situation that causes your little one to be uncertain and need extra support.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that babies and toddlers should not sleep with stuffed animals until they are older than 12 months old as these can pose a choking hazard. If you decide to introduce a lovey, make sure it meets all safety guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

It is wise to have a backup lovey on hand so your child can always sleep with someone familiar and trusted at night. Rotate them every few weeks, giving each one some special moments to connect with your baby - such as tucking it into the stroller or car seat while taking a walk or nursing or bottle feeding sessions. By the time your little one has formed an attachment to one of their loveies, they may become distressed if it is not present during bedtime.

How Do Loveys Help?

Loveys are baby's favorite comforting objects that they can hold, hug and carry around. These may come in all shapes and sizes, including stuffed animals like bears, monkeys, giraffes and blankies. Many babies take these pals so seriously that they keep them throughout their childhood years - sometimes passing them along to their own kids as they grow.

If your baby is having difficulty settling for nap or bedtime, introducing a lovey can help. They can hold and snuggle with their beloved companion, providing them with the comfort and connection needed to relax at night and sleep soundly.

Your child can start having their favorite toy as early as six months old, but make sure you consult your pediatrician first before placing it in their crib. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, waiting until your baby turns one year old before placing any soft toys in their crib is best; additionally, remember that stuffed animals should never go in a baby's first 12 months!

To encourage your baby to form an attachment with someone special, use a scent similar to that of either you or your partner. This will be more enticing for them and speed up the bond-forming process.

Newborns are inherently drawn to their mother's body odor (which explains why we're so drawn to colostrum), so it makes sense that they would associate this feeling of comfort with a loving caregiver. Your lovey can even have your favorite scent on hand, like lavender or vanilla if your little one prefers that kind of thing.

Once your child shows an interest in their toy, you can begin integrating it into daily routines such as bedtime feedings or reading a book before naptime. You could also take it on outings to places like parks and let them swing it around to become familiar with its smell and texture.

Loveys can be beneficial to your child at every stage of their development. They help with separation anxiety, help ease the transition to day care and provide comfort when being cared for by a babysitter. In conclusion, loveys provide numerous advantages to your little one that they won't get elsewhere.

How Can Loveys Help Your Child?

Loveys are soft objects babies can attach to for comfort and security. These may include blankets, stuffed animals, or other items like rubber ducks or articles of a parent's clothing. Usually given to new babies during holidays, baby showers, or first birthdays as a present.

Your baby may benefit from having a loved one to comfort them in unfamiliar places and circumstances. This could include new sitters, going to Grandma's house, or beginning at a new child care center.

If your baby is in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), a lovey can help them relax and go to sleep when they're fussy. Additionally, loveys may be beneficial when transitioning from one room of the NICU to another.

When selecting a lovey for your baby, opt for soft, snuggly fabric that is not too thick. Avoid blankets or toys with small ends or strings which could be ingested or choked on. Furthermore, steer clear of any toys with plastic buttons or glass eyes as these could pose potential choking hazards to your little one.

Avoid any toys that make noise or light up, as these can be too stimulating for your baby to sleep with. Instead, opt for a snuggly and soft blanket or stuffed toy that is machine washable. Check the lovey periodically to ensure there are no loose threads or other small parts that might come off accidentally.

It is essential that your baby only uses a lovey when they are at least 12 months old. This helps avoid them falling asleep with the lovey and becoming suffocated, which could result in death.

Loveys not only help your baby sleep soundly, but they can be an excellent way to bond with your child. By encouraging self-esteem and independence in young children, Loveys help build a stronger bond between the two of you.

As your child matures, their need for a lovey will lessen and they can develop their own strategies to meet their needs independently. With stronger social bonds and real friendships replacing the need for a comfort person, your child will become better equipped to manage life on their own without that extra help from someone special.

How Can Loveys Help You?

One of the best ways to help your baby sleep better is to cuddle them. Whether it's a teddy bear, blanket or toy, showing some affection goes a long way toward helping your little one get an adequate night's rest.

Unfortunately, cuddling your child in public places (like the doctor or grocery store) can be challenging. A lovey is the perfect solution; they're small and portable enough to slip into your purse or backpack for added comfort when needed most.

They're also an excellent way to show your baby that you care about them and are there to support their development. A lovey is also a great way for you to show them you're thinking of them even when you can't be present in person. Your little one may not enjoy being held all the time, but they will certainly appreciate being touched occasionally.